Faculty Equity Diversity and Inclusion Committee
Why is diversity in Science important?
We are committed to an equitable, inclusive Faculty of Science. To achieve this, we connect people through diversity networks, like the Pride in Science and Women in Science Networks. We consult broadly with students and staff across our Schools to ensure that their voices are heard and that they have a say in matters relating to them. We also organise inclusive events to show our support and celebrate our diverse community. We provide funding opportunities designed to offset inequity. Finally, we work to improve processes within the Faculty to ensure they are inclusive and equitable.
– Associate Professor Christen Mirth, Associate Dean Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Faculty of Science
Each of us is unique, with different life experiences, skillsets, beliefs, and world views. Acknowledging these differences by promoting diversity and supporting individuals to ensure they feel valued and included is simply the right thing for us to do. Research shows that if we do this well as a collective, we all benefit.
– Chris Flynn, General Manager, Faculty of Science
In Biological Sciences, we support diversity by ensuring diverse role models, through equitable staff recruitment and promotion processes, through managing unconscious bias, and through promotion of an inclusive culture that encourages diversity.
– Professor Craig White, Head of School, Biological Sciences
The School of Chemistry fosters an inclusive and diverse teaching and research environment through building a school culture that values diverse role models, family friendly celebrations and equity across all its practices.
– Dr Victoria Blair, Chair of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion for the School of Chemistry
We are deeply committed to the recognition of Indigenous peoples and stewardship of the land that we live and work on. We do this by employing an Indigenous scientist to run our unit on ‘Indigenous Science: Science through the eyes of Australia’s First Peoples’ and hosting a Welcome to Country by a Boon Wurrung elder each year. We also have a very active Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee that sets ambitious targets to inform our hiring and workplace policies, and hosts events throughout the year to make all people in our School feel welcome, included, valued and understood.
– Professor Andrew Mackintosh, Head of School, Earth, Atmosphere and Environment
Small things make important contributions to a positive work environment - an open-door policy, team lunches, and the like. Our international recruitment searches always start off with a list of potential candidates from underrepresented groups.
– Professor Stefan Maier, Head of School, Physics and Astronomy
The School of Mathematics aims to build and nourish an environment that accepts and welcomes all, in which people of all backgrounds feel appreciated. The School’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee supports numerous initiatives, including a mentoring program for women and gender diverse students, and organises regular events.
– Associate Professor Daniel Mathews, Chair of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion for the School of Mathematics